Beijing has confirmed that the US requested tariff talks, pushing back against claims that China initiated the discussions. A Chinese Embassy spokesperson said on Thursday that Washington reached out first through multiple diplomatic channels. According to Beijing, US officials actively expressed interest in restarting trade talks, including tariffs and related issues. After reviewing the messages carefully, Chinese officials agreed to meet in response to American outreach. The US requested tariff talks, not China, said the embassy in a statement.
China continues to oppose what it calls Washington’s abuse of tariffs and pressure tactics. Beijing says it will defend its legal rights, uphold global trade rules, and protect multilateral frameworks like the WTO. Officials insist that future talks must rest on equality, respect, and mutual benefit. China will reject any proposal that demands compromise on principles or global fairness. The US requested tariff talks but must drop threats to achieve real progress, Beijing warned.
China has also announced that Vice Premier He Lifeng will visit Switzerland from May 9 to 12. During the visit, He will meet US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent for trade negotiations. The Chinese Foreign Ministry stated on Wednesday that this meeting also stems from a US proposal. Spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized that China’s position on tariff hikes remains unchanged and firmly oppositional. Although China values dialogue, it refuses any form of coercion or intimidation during negotiations.
The Ministry of Commerce echoed this stance by criticizing recent US tariff actions as unfair and disruptive. Officials in Beijing said the Biden administration’s measures have damaged both bilateral ties and the global economy. In response, China introduced countermeasures to defend its economic interests. The ministry confirmed that the US requested tariff talks after pressure from domestic industries and consumers. Beijing agreed to engage only after evaluating these calls alongside national interests and global expectations.
China now stresses that successful dialogue depends on mutual trust and balanced interests. Officials continue to highlight their openness to talks under the right conditions. However, they reject any talks that combine diplomacy with economic blackmail. If Washington wants results, it must stop speaking one way while acting another. As the US requested tariff talks, China remains firm in defending its rights without compromising its principles.
